Empoli Football Club made history on February 26, 2024, defeating Juventus F.C. to reach the semifinals of the Coppa Italia for the first time ever. The match, held at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, ended dramatically with the teams tied 1-1 after regular, and extra time, leading to penalties.
Initially, Empoli shocked the home crowd by taking the lead against the mighty Juventus. The match had barely got underway when Empoli's Youssef Maleh unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, leaving Juventus goalkeeper Mattia Perin with little chance to react. This stunning goal ignited celebrations among the Empoli fans and set the tone for the first half. Despite being on the back foot, the home team struggled to find their rhythm and failed to capitalize on several opportunities to equalize.
Juventus provided some dangerous moments, particularly from their standout players like Dusan Vlahovic and Randal Kolo Muani, who both pressed hard against the Elas di Aversa's defensive line. Yet, as the first half waned, Empoli held their nerves and went to halftime with the lead.
After the break, the dynamics of the match shifted as Juventus intensified their attacks, seeking to recover from their one-goal deficit. Their persistence eventually paid off when French midfielder Khéphren Thuram executed a magical play, dribbling past defenders before slotting the ball home. The goal triggered wild celebrations from the Juventus faithful, and the match was now level.
With the score at 1-1, both teams launched waves of attacks. Empoli's resolute defense, marshaled by the likes of Lorenzo Tosto and Luca Marianucci, withstood everything Juventus threw at them. The visitors even had opportunities to retake the lead, with quick counter-attacks testing Perin once again.
With the match still deadlocked at the end of 90 minutes, the game proceeded to penalties, where the tension was palpable. Empoli was determined to make their mark, and they stepped up confidently for each kick. All their players converted their penalties, showcasing precision under pressure. Conversely, Juventus faltered, with Vlahovic and Kenan Yıldız both missing their attempts. The decisive penalty was scored by Marianucci, sealing Empoli’s place in the semifinals.
The win sparked emotions beyond joy for Empoli. Fans and players alike could scarcely believe they had beaten one of Italy's most storied clubs and achieved such height for their team. Empoli manager Roberto D'Aversa praised his players' resilience, stating, "L'Empoli per la prima volta nella sua storia raggiunge le semifinali di Coppa Italia," encapsulating the pure thrill of the achievement. His team not only believed they could compete but excelled against the odds.
Meanwhile, Juventus was left to reflect on what seemed like another disappointing chapter. Head coach Thiago Motta acknowledged the need for improvement, especially considering his side had dominated possession yet failed to capitalize effectively on their chances. "SBAGLIA YILDIZ! Vasquez intuisce e para il destro del turco!" he lamented, capturing the missed opportunities and unexpected turns of what was expected to be their straightforward march through the tournament.
The match concluded with echoes of Empoli’s celebration, marking it as a historical moment for the club. The fans erupted, chanting and singing long after the final whistle, commemorated by the players embracing and soaking up every moment of this incredible night.
The Coppa Italia had already seen its share of surprises this season, but none could rival the significance of this result. Empoli, advancing forward, brings renewed hope and ambition as they now look forward to their next match, setting the stage for future contests.